The Leeds Peace Poetry competition, which began in 2003, has become a well-established biennial event, each year attracting thousands of entries from schools, young people, adults and community groups. We aim to increase skills in poetry, and to encourage people to explore peace and justice issues through creative writing.

​The 12th Leeds Peace Poetry Competition

​THE THEME FOR 2016 IS REFUGEES

This year’s theme of refugees is intended to include all categories of displaced people, including asylum-seekers. We would also welcome submissions from a range of geographical perspectives so that the competition as a whole registers the global aspect of this important social phenomenon. The competition also offers us an opportunity to raise awareness not only of the current situation, but of a longer history of human migration and we would encourage entrants to think beyond the stereotypes of refugees and to reflect on the valuable contribution such people have made to the countries in which they have settled.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS

COMPETITION DETAILS

Entries should be no longer than 40 lines, be previously unpublished, and are limited to a maximum of two per person. Each entry must include the writer’s name and contact details. If appropriate, a teacher's name should be added as well.

​There are three categories: primary school, secondary school and adult. In each category, collective as well as individual entries are welcomed. Manuscripts and typescripts will not be returned and the judges’ decisions are final.

Winners will receive a certificate. We will publish their poems online, and some will appear in the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Workshops: Poets Rachel Bower, Hannah Copley and Helen Mort are offering workshops in schools or at the University in the second week of July. Email for more information.

GALA AWARDS EVENING

All shortlisted entrants will be invited to a gala awards evening at The Great Hall, University of Leeds, on Wednesday 23 November 2016 , at which prizes will be awarded to the winners by this year’s Chief Judge, Malika Booker.